Sexual Assault Survivors

How to Support Survivors of Sexual Assault / Rape

Listen

Believe her or him

Be supportive

Reassure your loved one it was not their fault

Let the victim know you are there for them when they are ready to talk

Help the victim receive medical attention. Some emergency departments have specialized programs for collecting sexual assault forensic evidence. If he/she does not want to report, he/she may prefer to go to a clinic or their primary care physician. Call MOCSA for names of recommended physicians

Stay calm: you'll be more helpful if you stay in control of your own emotions

Suggest that the victim talks with someone trained to help victims of sexual assault

Be gentle and sensitive

Don’t make decisions for the victim. Even if the victim is under 18, allow them to be part of the decision making process

Don't blame the victim for the assault — the blame always lies with the offender

Don't pressure the victim to talk — give them the chance to talk about their emotions and reactions when they choose

Don't tell the victim what he or she must or must not do — it is up to the victim whom to tell and whom not to tell